This is a topic I've been most interested in but have not found much conclusive information on. I have read some references that claim that the urushiol oil does not bond with anything but human skin. Those were not very credible references though. I've also read that many believe that since dogs, cats, etc. are "immune" because the fur keeps the oil from reaching the skin. These were more credible sources (researchers with universities). So the answer is - don't know. I would think it is possible but that's only a gut feeling as I have no proof.
Did your dog go for a swim while fishing? Is it possible that he has a skin irritation from something in the water? There is something called "Swimmer's Itch" which is an allergic rash caused by microscopic parasites in the water. Here's a reference:
Swimmer's Itch
As for treating it. Well it is a rash and should be treated as such regardless of what caused it. Did the vet give you any tips for how to treat it? The page I reference above has some tips on treating a rash - and the tips are generally the same as for poison ivy allergic rashes.
I hope this helps. |
